Although the Anaheim Ducks are running short on chances to prove they're more than just a regular-season power, they didn't seem daunted before they headed out on a 30-mile road trip that could define their year.

After the best regular season in franchise history, the Ducks have lost four of their past six playoff games heading into a critical Game 3 at Los Angeles on Thursday night.

It's barely a slump, and it includes a near-victory that got away with 7 seconds left in regulation in the second-round opener.

Yet the Ducks realize what hangs on their latest trip to Staples Center, and they're comfortable with the risk.